Laptop Recommendations for Students

The Department of Mechanical Engineering has two computer labs with 82 of the fastest computers and the latest engineering software to meet your course needs.

Overspending on a laptop is not necessary. A quality laptop can be purchased for less than $900.00. Tablet laptops are pricier but are gaining interest because you can take notes and work totally paperless.

Below is an overview of recommendations from Cliff Bailey, Engineering Technician Sr.

Video card for engineering is not that critical. The standard card with an i5 processor is fine.

Windows x64 operating system.

Extended warranty is good because laptops take a lot of abuse.

Please note, the operating system on a Mac is incompatible with most engineering software but you can have Windows installed.

The Computer Store

The Computer Store can offer advice on Lenovo, Dell, MAC laptops, and tablets for students.

MS Office, Solidworks, Creo 2.0, and AutoCAD are a few of the Windows-based programs you may want to run on your computer. There are student versions available at The Computer Store online. Fees vary.

UA Virtual Lab and Free Matlab

Our new UA Virtual Lab is available through My Akron. Students can access selected applications, including Office, Solidworks, and AutoCAD from any location at any time.

Free Matlab and Anti Virus software is available through My Akron under. Login and click on "Help Center." Under the heading “Home use software downloads” you can install Matlab. Carefully review the PDF instructions for the license code required to enter.